Workers within the Nigerian federal judiciary are voicing their frustrations over the non-payment of the approved 25%/35% salary increments and the delayed implementation of the 2024 minimum wage. Sources close to the situation revealed to Chronicles Reporters that these delays have placed many workers in severe financial distress, making it difficult for them to meet essential obligations such as paying rent, bills, and supporting their families.
The salary adjustments and new minimum wage were approved by the Nigerian government and were meant to take effect from January 2024. However, the payments have not yet been disbursed.
A senior official from the National Judicial Council (NJC) confirmed that the increments will not be implemented this year due to funding challenges. The official explained, “Securing supplementary funding has proven difficult, which has led to the postponement of the payments until next year.”
In a memo issued by the NJC, the body reiterated its position, stating, “We have completed the required documentation for the payments. Please note that the NJC is not withholding funds and is committed to transparency.”
However, workers remain skeptical of these reassurances. One anonymous employee questioned the NJC’s claims, asking, “If the NJC hasn’t received the funds, should they remain silent until the federal government releases them, or should they be pressuring the government for quicker resolution?”
Another worker highlighted what they perceived as unfair treatment between judges and other judiciary workers. “Recently, judges were granted a 300% salary and allowances increase, and they started receiving their payments promptly. But when it comes to judiciary staff, the excuse is always ‘no funds,'” the worker remarked.
Judiciary staff have also expressed dissatisfaction with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), accusing the union of failing to adequately represent their interests. “Is JUSUN still effectively representing us? Are they truly advocating for judiciary workers?” asked one frustrated employee.
Further fueling suspicions, claims have surfaced on various media platforms suggesting that funds for the salary increments and minimum wage were allocated to the judiciary as early as July. “We all saw it on the news that additional funds were approved for the 25%/35% salary increment and the new minimum wage. So, what is the hold-up? Something seems off,” another worker commented.
In light of the ongoing delays, the workers are calling on the Nigerian Government, the NJC, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to take immediate action to address the situation. They are also appealing to the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Labour Congress, and civil society groups to support their cause.
“We are urgently appealing to the Federal Government and the newly appointed CJN to intervene. We deserve better than this prolonged delay,” a worker stated. “It is an unjust situation that we can no longer tolerate.”
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